Gray's Lake Park, Des Moines IA

It's a very pleasant walk around the lake. The path is paved, so it is used by pedestrians, bicyclists, and skaters. Most people are polite; cyclists let you know of their approach if you are walking. If there doesn't seem to be a place to park, drive around the lake a little farther. There are also restrooms in a couple of different places, There's a swim beach, and a boat rental that offers kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, paddle boards, and one sailboat-a small Hobie catamaran.

There is a sign that explains the local bird life along the path. In another place there is a sign that explains how the lake and park came into existence. You can also explore the other side west of the lake because of the tunnel under the street.

Always clean and always full of people. I always feel safe going here knowing that there's always a cop or two posted around the park. The views are always gorgeous.

Beautiful park area near downtown. Great for walking, jogging, biking and rollerblading. They also have paddle boats that are rentable during the day. At night the walking bridge and trail passing under the road are lit up with beautiful multi colored lights.

Make it a great day with a walk and a swim!
Bring along furry friends. Nice beach area.

They have rentals for kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and peddle boats that are extremely cheap compared to other places and the scenery is gorgeous

Enjoyed walking around the lake. Use to do more than I do now.
I understand the "natural habitat" with wildflowers, etc, but its a bit much. It looks more like they cut back on groundskeeping. There are more weeds than wildflowers.yes.they are weeds.

Absolutely beautiful park! We stopped for lunch after a trip to Blank Park Zoo. Had our lunch on the deck overlooking the lake. Couldn't be more relaxing and such beautiful views.

This was my first time in over 10 years that I have visited Gray’s Lake. My brother, nephew and I went around the park skating for an early afternoon. The other visitors were very kind, the trail was smooth, and the park was clean. This is a great place to bring family and friends! I will be back soon.

This is a great place to take kids of all ages, to the beach. The beach is clean, and there are shade trees and picnic tables, just at the edge if the sand, so those of us who can't tolerate much sun or heat can retreat and still watch our people on the beach. It has a concession stand.
The park it's self is a nice park. It's clean, well kept, and spacious enough that you're not trying to picnic on top of other groups.
There are very nice playgrounds, lo aged near both the beach and Picnic areas.
The beach restrooms are pretty rough, and usually not clean to the point of being gross. I can't comment on the other park restrooms, as I haven't used them.

Terrible place, if you are not 100% on time you will get locked in there and they wont do anything about it. Always employees locking door infront of people before they can leave

Nice place but I live in the country it was crowded for my taste. Non curiosity people cranking their music. But paths are nice to walk on.

Underrated and underutilized city beach. Also has a lot of grills and some food options at the concession stand.

Best park in Des Moines by a long shot. Beautiful (almost) 2 mile path around the lake. Great skyline views. Perfect all seasons.

Very popular and I felt safe just sunbathing. There are signs saying you can't swim but it's nice to dip your feet in to cool off. There is a boat rental for a good price.

We had a lot of fun here. A picnic and time on the boats were very relaxing and good for the soul.